ICC Assembly Bureau Calls for Immediate Revocation of Sanctions Against Court

The Bureau says institutional sanctions threaten the International Criminal Court’s independence and urges international support.

By Habari Entertainment | October 10, 2026

THE HAGUE — The Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties called Saturday for the immediate revocation of sanctions against the International Criminal Court, warning that measures targeting the institution threaten its ability to carry out independent judicial functions.

In an October 10 statement, the Bureau expressed regret over sanctions imposed on the Court as an institution. It described the move as an escalation following sanctions targeting the Court’s elected officials.

The supplied statement did not identify the government imposing the sanctions, outline their specific restrictions or explain their practical effects on the Court’s operations.

Bureau Warns of Threat to Judicial Independence

The Bureau characterized the sanctions as coercive measures intended to obstruct the Court and its personnel in carrying out their work.

It argued that targeting the institution challenges an international legal framework built to promote accountability rather than impunity.

The statement reaffirmed support for the Court’s officials, staff and those cooperating with its judicial mandate under the Rome Statute. The Bureau also reiterated its commitment to international justice and judicial independence.

Its response frames the sanctions as a challenge extending beyond individual officials to the institution itself and the people supporting its work.

Call for Cooperation and International Support

The Bureau urged States Parties and other stakeholders in the Rome Statute system to maintain cooperation with the Court.

It also called on the international community to defend the institution and demonstrate a collective commitment to protecting the international rule of law.

That appeal was accompanied by a direct demand for the sanctions to be revoked immediately. The statement did not announce specific countermeasures or additional steps the Assembly would take in response.

What Is the Assembly of States Parties?

The Assembly of States Parties serves as the ICC’s management oversight and legislative body.

Its Bureau consists of a president, two vice presidents, and 18 members elected by the Assembly for three-year terms. The Bureau assists the Assembly in carrying out its responsibilities.

Saturday’s statement represents the Bureau’s position on the institutional sanctions. It is an appeal for political support and continued cooperation, rather than a judicial ruling by the Court.

Source: Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties press release, The Hague, October 10, 2026.